A Little Avalanche Education goes a long way
Our winters here in the Northwest may be wet and short on daylight, but that’s no excuse to not go play in the mountains. Be aware, however, that the dangers of winter adventuring generally outnumber those in other seasons. Taking the time now to educate yourself in some simple ways on avalanche safety can help keep you confident, happy, and safe (well, safer, at least) from one of the biggest threats in the backcountry during winter.
In the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, avalanche forecasts are available by calling the Northwest Avalanche Center at (206) 526-6677, or online at www.nwac.us. Weather information is compiled and disseminated daily, and even more frequently during unstable or rapidly changing conditions, to help provide backcountry adventurers with real-time data to help gauge danger levels. Learn more about the danger scale at www.nwac.us/education/avydangerscale.
Free Avalanche Awareness Clinics in your area:
- Seattle REI, Register at www.rei.com/stores/11
- Portland REI, Register at www.rei.com/stores/13
- Mountain Hardwear Seattle Store, (206) 441-2639
- Mountain Hardwear Portland Store, (503) 226-6868
Other Avalanche Safety Tips:
- Be aware that the highest danger is often during or immediately after a storm where there has been significant snowfall
- Steep, shady slopes are also particularly vulnerable
- Don’t linger in gullies, bowls, or valleys
- Learn how to perform snowpit and shear tests to determine the stability of snowpack on a slope
- Learn to recognize avalanche chutes, and stay to the sides when ascending or descending a slope
- Carry backcountry essentials: a map, compass, fire starter, water proof matches, extra food, extra water, extra clothing, knife, flashlight with spare batteries and bulb, first aid kit, sunglasses, cell phone, and a space blanket
- Carry rescue equipment on your person, including an avalanche beacon (transceiver), a collapsible shovel, and ski-pole probes
- Take your knowledge to the next level with a 3-day Level 1 Avalanche Education course.
Seattle calendar: www.rei.com/stores/11.
Portland calendar: www.rei.com/stores/13
